Few days ago we wrote a blog post about using OpenDNS’ DNS infrastructure in Ubuntu to protect your computers from threats. This post is also going to show you how to do the same in Windows, including Windows 8.

You see, the Internet is like jungle. There are folks who use the Internet to install viruses and spyware programs on users’ computers to use as bots or ask for ransoms in order to remove these programs they installed in the first place.

And because the Internet is a valuable resource, we all use it along with the bad guys to carry on other activities. But one thing to do before connecting your computer to the Internet is to make sure it’s protected by antivirus program. If you don’t, you may be inviting trouble.

Installing antivirus software is the first step in protecting your computers. Another thing you may want to do is use a secured DNS provider for all your machines.

Using a secured DNS providers add additional layer of security to your computers.

When looking for secured DNS providers, the first place to look is OpenDNS. This company offers protection for home users for free. OpenDNS DNS service automatically blocks websites that may want to install viruses and spyware on your computers.

Besides protecting your machines from problem websites, it also allows you to configure parental control to block websites deemed inappropriate. So, to use this service in Windows, you must first setup your computer to use the provider DNS addresses.

To do that in Windows 8, press the Windows Key + X on your keyboard. The Windows key is the key with Windows logo left of the space bar. When the feature list open, select Network Connections.

 

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Next, right-click on the network interface you wish to apply the setting to and select Properties. It may be a good idea to apply the setting to both your wired and wireless network interfaces.

 

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Next, select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and select Properties.

 

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Finally, make the changes as shown below by adding OpenDNS’ DNS addresses. When you’re done click OK to save it.

 

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After setting up the DNS addresses, logon to your account and select Support. Then download and install OpenDNS Updater client. Installing the software allows the computer to automatically adjust it IP address after it has been changed by your ISP provider.

After that, logon to your set your web content filtering if you which to setup parental control.

 

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Enjoy!